HUNTSVILLE, Alabama-- A clear majority of more that 1,800 AL.com readers who participated in a recent poll say they carry a concealed weapon with them in public places.

Of those who participated, 66 percent (1,207) in the unscientific poll said that they carry a concealed firearm, while 12 percent of voters (223) said they open carry a firearm, and 21 percent of voters (387) said they do not carry a fire arm in public places.

BTW, I never had an occasion come up where I needed a weapon or wish I had one. I always have had a handgun at home and do now, but never in my personal vehicle or on my person unless I was in uniform. I know this is contrary to what many if not most cops do, I'm just reported the choices I made.

John381: I have a CC but for me it depends on the situation. If I'm going to the gas station late at night I'm going to carry. If I'm running to the grocery store at 9 am I typically don't carry. I guess you could say I carry part-time.

Gertrude M. Bell: When I had a carry permit, I carried almost everywhere during the work day. So if I was coming home from work and had to stop at the grocery store I'd be carrying. On weekends going to the grocery store or to a kids soccer game I would not be carrying.

coherent1: I've never experienced that type of fear, or the need to carry a firearm. It's hard for me to understand the gun culture's absolute desire to carry a firearm. Maybe they've experienced something that caused them to want to carry a firearm, or they fear their own private thoughts. Those are the only things I could think of that would help me understand their mindset.

Footbawlguy: As a husband and father I feel like it is my job to do whatever I need to do to make sure my family is safe. I carry my firearm for the same reason I wear my seatbelt, the same reason I have fire extinguishers in my home and vehicles and the same reason I carry an emergency kit in the Winter. They are all last resort safety precautions.

I hope I never have to rely on any of them for protection, but if I do need them, I'd rather have the option

Chris Wrenn: The day I feel the need to arm myself in public will be the same day I will be making plans to MOVE somewhere else.

Brandon Johnson: I do not go anywhere without a weapon on me, if a place does not allow weapons, I simply don't go in, unless I have to. I used to work at a place that did not allow any kind of weapon, however I wasn't going to go to work everyday without one. I was fired, but the whole time I was trying to explain that they should want their employees armed. (To read his full comment and others left on the poll, click here)